Pathology
The majority of cases of CLL result from malignant transformation of a B cell; less frequently, of a T cell. In any particular case B or T cell clonality can be established using DNA probes. The malignant lymphocyte is indistinguishable morphologically, from a normal small, relatively mature lymphocyte.
Smear cells are common which have:
- weakly fluorescent surface membrane immunoglobulin (SmIg) of IgM or IgD class
- membrane receptors for the Fc fragment of IgG and for C3
- positive for Ia and CD5 antigens
CLL differs from multiple myeloma in that CLL is derived from small, relatively mature lymphocytes whereas multiple myeloma is derived form bone marrow plasma cells and their precursors.
Reference
- Eichhorst B, Robak T, Montserrat E, et al; ESMO Guidelines Committee. Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia: ESMO clinical practice guidelines for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. Ann Oncol. 2021 Jan;32(1):23-33.
Related pages
Create an account to add page annotations
Annotations allow you to add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation. E.g. a website or number. This information will always show when you visit this page.